Route Y Bridge Replacement in Webster County

Why is the bridge construction scheduled for 2026 and not 2025?

The bridge construction is scheduled for 2026 because we’re not just making repairs—we’re replacing the current box culvert with a full bridge. This is a major upgrade that takes more time to plan and complete to make sure it’s the best long-term solution. It involves detailed design work, preparing special requirements, advertising the project, selecting a contractor, and then building the bridge.  The project also requires permitting and clearances for sensitive resources that take time to obtain. While all of this adds time to the process, we’re working hard to reopen the route as soon as we can.

Why not use a temporary bridge?

A temporary bridge isn’t a safe or practical option in this case. The original structure was removed quickly due to safety and stability concerns, and a temporary bridge would be even less secure. There’s a high risk of washout, which could damage areas downstream and create even more problems.

 Additionally, a temporary bridge would require permitting and clearances for sensitive resources, which would take time away from clearing the permanent structure. This would add time and cost and could make it harder to build the permanent, improved bridge we need to solve the underlying issues.